The 12 August 2026 Solar Eclipse: Everything You Need to Know
On Wednesday 12 August 2026, skywatchers across the UK will have the chance to witness one of the most spectacular astronomical events of the decade—a deep partial solar eclipse.
While the path of totality passes through Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain, observers across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will enjoy an incredible view as the Moon passes in front of the Sun, obscuring up to 94% of its surface depending on your location.
For many people, this will be the first significant solar eclipse they've ever experienced, making it the perfect opportunity to get outside, learn more about our Solar System and enjoy a truly unforgettable event.
At The Welsh Astronomy Centre, we're here to help you prepare, stay safe and make the most of eclipse day.
🌍 What Is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow onto the Earth.
Depending on where you are, you may experience:
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🌑 Total Solar Eclipse – The Moon completely covers the Sun.
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🌘 Partial Solar Eclipse – Part of the Sun is obscured.
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🔥 Annular Solar Eclipse – The Moon appears slightly smaller than the Sun, leaving a brilliant "Ring of Fire."
From the UK, we'll experience a deep partial eclipse, where the Moon covers the vast majority of the Sun but not completely.
📅 When Will the Eclipse Be Visible?
The eclipse takes place on Wednesday 12 August 2026 and will be visible across the whole of the UK during the early evening.
Approximate UK Viewing Times (BST)
| Eclipse Stage | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| 🌑 Eclipse Begins | 6:10–6:20 pm |
| 🌞 Maximum Eclipse | 7:05–7:15 pm |
| 🌤 Eclipse Ends | 8:00–8:10 pm |
For much of Wales, you can expect:
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🌑 Eclipse Begins: Around 6:15 pm BST
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🌞 Maximum Eclipse: Around 7:12 pm BST
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🌤 Eclipse Ends: Shortly after 8:05 pm BST
Times vary slightly depending on your exact location, but wherever you are in the UK you'll have the opportunity to witness one of the deepest partial solar eclipses visible from Britain for many years.
🌅 Choose Your Viewing Location Carefully
One thing many people don't realise is that the Sun will be quite low in the western sky throughout the eclipse.
To give yourself the best possible view, look for a location with:
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🌄 A clear horizon towards the west or west-northwest
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🌳 No trees blocking the view
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🏠 Minimal buildings nearby
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⛰️ Open countryside, beaches or elevated viewpoints where possible
Arriving early allows time to set up your equipment and enjoy watching the Moon gradually move across the Sun from the very beginning.
⚠️ Protect Your Eyes
Never look directly at the Sun without certified solar viewing equipment.
Even during a partial eclipse, the Sun is bright enough to cause permanent eye damage in seconds.
Safe viewing options include:
✅ ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses
✅ Certified solar filters fitted securely over the front of telescopes or binoculars
✅ Dedicated solar telescopes
Never use:
❌ Sunglasses
❌ Camera ND filters
❌ Smoked glass
❌ CDs or DVDs
❌ Unfiltered binoculars or telescopes
If you're ever unsure whether your equipment is safe, don't use it until you've checked.
🔭 The Best Equipment for Watching the Eclipse
👓 Solar Eclipse Glasses
Perfect for families and first-time observers.
Simply put them on and watch the Moon slowly take a "bite" out of the Sun.
🔭 Telescopes with Solar Filters
A telescope fitted with a certified white-light solar filter transforms the experience.
You'll be able to observe:
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Sunspots
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The Moon's sharply defined edge
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Fine detail across the Sun's surface
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The eclipse unfolding in incredible detail
☀️ Dedicated Solar Telescopes
If you really want to explore our nearest star, dedicated solar telescopes reveal:
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Solar prominences
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Filaments
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Surface granulation
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Active regions
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Solar flares
They're one of the most rewarding pieces of astronomy equipment you can own.
📷 Photographing the Eclipse
The 2026 eclipse is an excellent opportunity for astrophotography.
Whether you're using a DSLR, mirrorless camera or smartphone attached to a telescope, a little preparation goes a long way.
We recommend:
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📷 A sturdy tripod
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📸 Remote shutter release or self-timer
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☀️ Certified solar filter for your camera lens
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🔋 Fully charged batteries
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💾 Plenty of memory card space
Never point an unfiltered camera or telescope directly at the Sun, as this can permanently damage both your equipment and your eyesight.
☁️ What If It's Cloudy?
British weather is famously unpredictable—but don't give up!
Weather forecasts become increasingly accurate in the days leading up to the eclipse, so it's worth keeping an eye on conditions.
If you're able to travel, even moving 20 or 30 miles can sometimes mean the difference between thick cloud and perfectly clear skies.
⭐ Top Tips for Eclipse Day
✔ Check the weather forecast.
✔ Charge your camera batteries.
✔ Test your equipment beforehand.
✔ Make sure your solar filter is fitted securely.
✔ Arrive early.
✔ Wear suitable clothing—even on a summer evening.
✔ Take a few moments to simply enjoy the experience.
🛒 Get Ready Before Eclipse Day
Demand for eclipse glasses and solar filters always increases as eclipse day approaches, with many popular products selling out well in advance.
If you're planning to observe through a telescope or binoculars, now is the perfect time to make sure you have the correct solar filter.
At The Welsh Astronomy Centre, you'll find everything you need to enjoy the eclipse safely, including:
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Solar Eclipse Glasses
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Solar Filters
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Dedicated Solar Telescopes
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Binocular Solar Filters
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Camera Solar Filters
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Tripods
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Astronomy Accessories
Preparing early means you'll be ready the moment the eclipse begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the UK see a total solar eclipse?
No. The UK will experience a deep partial eclipse, while totality will be visible from parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain.
Is it safe to watch?
Yes—but only when using certified solar viewing equipment.
Never look directly at the Sun without proper protection.
Can children watch it?
Absolutely.
A solar eclipse is a fantastic opportunity to inspire young astronomers. Children should always wear properly fitted eclipse glasses and be supervised by an adult.
Can I use my telescope?
Yes—but only if it is fitted with a certified solar filter over the front of the telescope before pointing it towards the Sun.
🌞 Don't Miss One of the UK's Biggest Astronomy Events
The 12 August 2026 Solar Eclipse will be one of the most exciting celestial events visible from the UK for many years.
Whether you're watching from your garden, a local hilltop or your favourite dark sky location, it's an experience you'll remember for a lifetime.
Here at The Welsh Astronomy Centre, we're passionate about helping people discover the wonders of the night sky—and this eclipse is the perfect opportunity to begin your astronomy journey or add another unforgettable memory to it.
We look forward to helping you enjoy eclipse day safely.
